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6 Team Productivity Hacks Every Manager Needs to Know

6 Team Productivity Hacks Every Manager Needs to Know

Productivity is the backbone of any successful team; when your team’s productivity soars, so can your business’s bottom line. Boosting team performance isn’t about squeezing out every last minute of work from your employees. It involves setting up your team members for success with the right tools, workplace environment, and strategies. From streamlined workflows to quality office furniture, there are smart ways to help your team work better together.

As New Zealand’s trusted experts in office furniture, we’ve supported countless offices in creating environments where teams can focus, collaborate, and thrive. In this article, we share practical, easy-to-implement hacks to increase team productivity, boost morale, and make your office a place where everyone can do their best work.

Setting clear, achievable goals is foundational to improving team productivity. The SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) ensures that goals are concrete and motivating. Short-term goals, like completing a weekly project milestone, can keep your team engaged in immediate tasks, while long-term goals, such as increasing team performance metrics by 10% over six months, can provide an overarching aim.

Example: If your goal is to increase customer satisfaction by 15% this quarter, a weekly target might involve each member following up with five clients to ensure their issues are fully resolved. Tracking progress on these micro-goals boosts employee productivity and keeps momentum strong.

Good communication is key to a productive team. Regular check-ins and constructive feedback loops make it easy for team members to clarify tasks, share progress, and resolve any roadblocks. Using communication platforms like Slack or project management tools can also support transparency and help to build confident team members.

Example: Implement a weekly 15-minute team huddle where everyone shares their top priority and any challenges they’re facing. This promotes openness, supports each team member, and makes it easier for a team leader to step in with assistance if needed.

Collaboration is a powerful way to improve team efficiency, as it leverages each member’s unique strengths. Structured group sessions, like brainstorming or collaborative tasks, encourage team building while supporting creativity. A well-designed workspace that includes communal areas and flexible desks can promote a collaborative spirit without compromising individual focus.

Example: Set up a 'collaboration corner' in the office, like a space with a whiteboard and flexible seating. Encourage team members to use it for quick discussions, creative brainstorming, or problem-solving sessions, enhancing team productivity without the need for a formal meeting room.

Flexible work options, like remote work or staggered hours, can positively impact a team's efficiency. This flexibility helps manage work-life balance, which is essential for preventing burnout. Project management tools like Trello or Asana facilitate task management in remote or hybrid setups, making flexible arrangements smoother and helping to increase productivity.

Example: Trial a 'Flex Friday,' where team members can choose to work remotely or in the office, depending on what suits them. This flexibility improves morale and boosts productivity, as team members feel empowered to manage their schedules effectively.

Encouraging regular breaks and wellness practices can increase team productivity by reducing stress and increasing focus. Studies show that short breaks can boost mental clarity and energy. Simple wellness practices, such as setting reminders to stand, stretch, or breathe deeply, can make a big difference.

Example: Create a 'Wellness Wednesday' initiative where team members take a 5-minute group stretch break or do a quick breathing exercise. Designate a quiet area in the office as a relaxation zone, helping to create a healthy work environment that promotes focus, along with mental and physical well-being.

Physical comfort plays a major role in improving team efficiency. When team members can work comfortably, they’re more likely to stay focused and engaged throughout the day. Ergonomic office chairs, equipped with features like adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests, help prevent the physical strain that leads to discomfort and lost concentration. Studies indicate that ergonomic seating improves team performance and leads to increased job satisfaction by creating a supportive environment that directly affects productivity.

Example: Set up each workstation with ergonomic chairs that adjust to the user’s needs. For instance, provide office chairs with adjustable lumbar support and seat height so team members can customise them for optimal comfort and posture.

Implementing these productivity hacks can help you create a workplace where every team member feels supported and motivated to give their best. From setting clear goals to investing in ergonomic office furniture, these strategies contribute toward a positive work environment that can improve productivity, boost morale, and make work more enjoyable.

Workspace Direct understands how an office set up affects team productivity. With ergonomic office solutions, including top-quality office chairs designed for all-day comfort, our team is here to support your office in creating a productive, efficient, and welcoming environment. Contact Us today to explore how our range of quality office furniture can boost team productivity and set your business up for success. 

5 Reasons Business Owners Are Investing in Electric Desks

5 Reasons Business Owners Are Investing in Electric Desks

Electric desks are changing the game in offices across New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why business owners are getting on board. It's important that modern offices focus on more than just providing a place to work by building spaces that support health, enhance productivity, and cater to the evolving needs of employees. Electric desks do exactly that, allowing people to move from sitting to standing at the touch of a button, which keeps energy levels high and backs happy.

As New Zealand’s trusted provider of ergonomic office furniture, we have seen firsthand how electric height-adjustable desks can transform an office. In this article, we share some of the top reasons business owners are investing in electric desks, from boosting team morale to promoting better posture and health.

Employee wellness has become a priority, and electric sit stand desks are one of the best tools for promoting health at work. Studies show that sitting for prolonged periods can lead to back pain, poor posture, and even increased risk of heart disease. By allowing users to easily switch between sitting and standing, electric desks encourage movement throughout the day. This reduces the risk of physical strain, boosts circulation, and supports better posture.

Employees who use standing desks experience a reduction in lower back discomfort and also report higher energy levels. With their height adjustable function, electric desks make it easy to adapt the workspace to each person’s needs, creating a healthy, dynamic work environment.

Comfort is closely tied to productivity, and electric sit stand desks offer ergonomic support that helps employees stay engaged and focused. Research highlights that standing periodically during the day can boost cognitive function and energy levels, enabling employees to stay on task for longer. The ability to quickly adjust the desk’s height also makes it easy for individuals to find their ideal working position, which minimises physical strain and distractions.

This adjustability helps create a workspace that’s perfectly suited to each person’s height and preferences, enhancing their ability to work without discomfort. The ergonomic functionality of these desks contributes to an uplift in productivity while also supporting sustained engagement and enthusiasm throughout the workday.

Today’s workforce expects flexible, health-oriented work environments that promote well-being and a healthy work-life balance. Electric Sit Stand Desks are a perfect example of how businesses can adapt to these modern needs. By promoting a workspace that prioritises employee wellness, businesses support better posture and comfort and also show a clear commitment to their team’s health.

In fact, offering perks like height adjustable desks can be a strong factor in attracting and retaining top talent. A recent survey found that 53% of employees would switch jobs for more flexibility and wellness perks. By including ergonomic furniture in the office, businesses create an environment that appeals to job seekers looking for a progressive workplace that values its employees’ well-being.

Investing in electric sit-stand desks may require an initial outlay, but the long-term financial benefits are substantial. Ergonomic furniture helps mitigate health issues, which are common in sedentary work environments. By promoting movement and better posture, these desks can decrease absenteeism and healthcare expenses. A RAND study highlighted that, for every dollar spent on employee wellness programs, medical costs fall by $3.27, indicating a significant return on investment.

Moreover, a healthier, more comfortable workplace boosts morale and reduces turnover, leading to lower recruitment and training costs.

A workspace that’s both comfortable and adjustable makes a big difference in how valued employees feel at work. Electric sit stand desks offer each team member control over their setup, letting them tailor it to suit their personal comfort needs. This level of individualisation in the workspace can significantly boost job satisfaction and morale, as employees feel their comfort is a priority.

A well-furnished office with ergonomic, height adjustable desks encourages employees to take ownership of their health and productivity. This can lead to an overall uplift in motivation and engagement. Happier employees are more likely to contribute positively to the company culture, leading to a stronger team dynamic.

Investing in electric desks is a forward-thinking decision that can transform your office environment. As we've covered, these height adjustable desks support employee health by promoting movement and better posture. They also enhance productivity and align with modern workforce expectations. While there might be an initial cost, the long-term benefits like reduced absenteeism and improved team morale make it a wise investment.

If you're ready to upgrade your workspace, Workspace Direct has got you covered. We offer a wide range of electric desks designed to meet the needs of New Zealand businesses. Our desks are competitively priced and built to last, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Plus, we ship New Zealand wide, so no matter where your workplace is, you can easily access our quality products.

Don't settle for a standard setup when you can enhance your team's comfort and productivity with well-designed electric desks. Explore our collection today to find the perfect fit for your office. 

The Business Case for Ergonomic Office Chairs

5 Ways a Corner Desk Will Transform Your Office Space

Office Chairs - Tips for Perfect Posture & Enhanced Comfort

If you are sitting in an office chair for extended periods, understanding positive sitting posture can make a huge difference to your comfort and energy levels, your productivity, and your long-term health. An Ergonomic Office Chair is designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment. 

Here is a quick checklist to go through and check your sitting posture 

ELBOWS AT YOUR SIDE AND LEVEL WITH KEYBOARD

To be able to use the computer comfortably for extended periods of time, you need to be able to use your keyboard and mouse without stretching. Stretching or over-reaching while using the computer can cause forearm and shoulder tension and pain. Your shoulders should be relaxed, and your elbows close by your side and approximately level with your keyboard. If you’re reaching up, or your wrists are rolled back, you’ll quickly experience wrist strain, pain, and fatigue. 

EYES LEVEL TO THE TOP OF YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN

To protect your neck and shoulder muscles from strain and pain your eyes should be approximately level with the top of your screen. 

BACK AND LUMBAR PROPERLY SUPPORTED

If you’re sitting for some hours at a time our recommendation is that as a minimum your chair should have gas-lift seat height adjustment, and backrest angle and height adjustment. Always sit near the back of your seat. Make sure the chair backrest is adequately supporting your back and allowing you to sit with your back straight. The backrest lumbar support should be positioned to support your lower back. We recommend sitting with your torso and thighs at an angle a little more open than 90 degrees, with your knees slightly lower than your hips.This open-angle sitting position allows for good circulation and lung function. 

FEET FLAT ON THE FLOOR

Place your feet flat on the floor or try a footrest, this can make a considerable difference to your comfort. If your feet aren’t reaching the floor or somehow supported, this will mean adding pressure under your thighs which can inhibit circulation and cause discomfort. 

REMEMBER TO MOVE!

Any prolonged sitting position, even a good one, can be tiring. As you’re working you can change your chair backrest angle or seat angle from time to time to allow your spine and muscles a variation in position. We recommend standing or move away from your office chair and regular intervals. If you have a standing desk you can alternate sitting and standing throughout the day. Take stretch breaks during the day. 

OTHER HELPFUL HINTS 

MINDFULNESS AND BREATHING

Having a stressful day? Try mindfulness techniques and deep breathing exercises to reduce stress. Simply take a few moments and focus on deep breathing to a regular count. 

STAY HYDRATED

Keep a water bottle at your desk or use a walk to the office water cooler as an opportunity to stretch and move.

 ERGONOMIC ACCESSORIES

Are you using the correct Ergonomic accessories? Consider a wrist-rest mouse pad, keyboard wrist-rest and adjustable monitor stand.

ABOUT OFFICE CHAIR MECHANISMS

3 LEVER OFFICE CHAIRS

• Gaslift height adjustment
• Backrest angle adjustment
• Seat angle adjustment
• Backrest height adjustment

With a 3-lever mechanism the seat and backrest angles are adjusted separately and can be moved to a position that suits you and then locked in place. The seat angle adjustment allows a forward tilt seat angle promoting an open body posture and positive circulation, and allowing the user to sit within easy reach of their work. A 3-lever mechanism allows enough adjustability to suit users working 8+ hours a day. Some chairs with 3-lever mechanisms also feature a Seat Slide function. This allows the seat depth to be adjusted to suit the user. Most New Zealanders like 3-lever mechanisms as they allow the most control over how you choose to sit.

2 LEVER OFFICE CHAIRS 

• Gaslift height adjustment
• Backrest angle adjustment
• Backrest height adjustment

The 2-lever mechanism backrest angle adjustment allows you to choose your backrest position and then lock it in place to suit. We recommend 2-lever mechanisms for users sitting for short periods up to 6 hours a day. Chairs with 2-lever mechanisms can also be fitted with a Seat Slide function. This allows the seat depth to be adjusted to suit the user. We also recommend 2-lever mechanisms for HighLift chairs, as we feel that maximum stability is achieved with a fixed seat angle.

SYNCHRO OFFICE CHAIRS

• Dynamic back and seat tilt movement
• Gas Lift height adjustment
• And sometimes lumbar height adjust

With a synchro mechanism the backrest and seat tilt movement is synchronised so they move together when adjusted. It is designed to be used in floating tilt mode so the backrest and seat move with you, following your movement to support you as you work. The tilt function can also be locked so the seat and back angle is fixed. On most chairs with synchro mechanisms the user needs to adjust the tilt tension to suit their body weight, so that the seat and back are providing you with appropriate support and you can move and tilt the chair comfortably. With backrest height or lumbar adjustment, a chair with a synchro mechanism offers enough adjustability to suit users working 8+ hours a day.

Be sure to check out our Best Selling Office Chairs at Workspace Direct

1. Buro Roma 3 Lever Office Chair

2. Chorus 3.5  3 Lever Office Chair

3. Spectrum 3 Lever Office Chair

What is the impact of colour in the Workspace?

When it comes to the office environment, strategic use of colours can contribute to employee productivity, mood, culture and overall atmosphere.

Workplace colour psychology is often introduced through design elements like wall colours, office furniture and artwork.

Blue: Often associated with calmness and productivity, making it a popular choice in offices. Suggested as the best colour for promoting efficiency and wellbeing in the office

Green: For a calming and harmonious office environment. Represents nature and balance, promoting a sense of well-being and creativity.

Red: Considered a highly stimulating colour that is associated with power and excitement. Adding a splash of red to the office can boost employee motivation, as long as it is used sparingly, as too much can lead to anxiety and stress. Keep Red to a minimum.

Yellow: Considered the colour of creativity, which is why it features often in innovation labs and other creative spaces. Yellow is thought to inspire creativity, making collaboration easier and promoting optimism.

Orange:  Perceived as cheerful, friendly, and successful. It can promote energy and creativity. You may want to incorporate pops of orange or mix them with more neutral colours to make an impact.

White: Symbolizes cleanliness and simplicity, commonly used for a modern, open workspace. In office environments, white makes a space feel bigger and cleaner, which makes it ideal for smaller spaces. It also coordinates well with most other colours, so it can be combined with other colours in a room to make it more interesting. Use white in combination with colours if you do decide to use it.

Neutral Tones (e.g. Grey, Beige) convey a sense of professionalism and neutrality. Neutral colours also add a sense of calm to the office space.

Purple: Represents luxury and creativity, often used in creative industries. Purple is also associated with wisdom, imagination and peacefulness. Try adding touches of purple tones throughout your space to bring these moods into the workplace.

Black: In addition to absorbing natural light, black also denotes power, authority, and control. Black can be intimidating and invoke a sinister atmosphere when there is too much of it. Used sparingly, it can give a room an elegant look. It can be used effectively in a corporate executive suite. 

 Ultimately, the choice of colours in the workplace should align with the company's culture, brand identity, and the type of work being done. It is important to strike a balance that promotes a comfortable and productive environment for employees.

Workspace Direct products to introduce colour to your work place

Office and Desk Screens

Acoustics

Office Seating

Office Zoning